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Monday, May 9, 2011

Eclipse - we will miss you

Part of life on a farm and of having livestock and pets is the hard part of losing one. I have always told my children, and everyone else, that when an animal comes into your life you have to realize that they will probably not live as long as you do so it is your responsibility to give them the best, kindest, most loved life possible while they are with you.

Before we moved to Alvin I boarded my horses with a friend who had her own horses and pgymy goats. That was my first time to be around these inquisitive creatures. In March 2000 a set of twins were born at the barn. My daughter and I were there and after they were born my friend let Marissa name them. One was Star (because of the star on her forehead) and the second one had a half moon on both of her sides so her name became Eclipse. Marissa looked forward to visiting "her" goats when we went out to the barn. When we purchased our place in April 2001 my friend gave us Eclipse and Star as a housewarming gift. Greatest gift ever! Star got sick and we lost her early on but Eclipse has been with us all this time.

I read up on lifespans of goats and it is generally 10 to 12 years and Eclipse had started slowing down about a year ago. She was the boss...she loved to play chase with Marissa and Tyler and anyone else who would push her horns then run! If you tried to walk across the pasture she would get in front of you to make you stop and give her a rub. She was just a fun being to have around. She got hit by one of the bigger goats last week and the hit must have been just too much for her. She seemed to be getter until yesterday. We had to ease her pain because she couldn't get up or move without pain. I also believe although hard our four-legged companions leave it up to us to make hard decisions on their behalf and I could and would not let her suffer needlessly. It was hard but I know she is not in pain any longer. She was surrounded by us and we were with her until the end. We gave her hugs and I kissed her forehead. We were so blessed to have known her from the day she was born until she passed. We love her and will miss her.

That's all for today...come back soon.

13 comments:

Sharon said...

Yah, I know all the realities of having pets and they seldom live long, but the hurt is great and I am very sorry to hear that you have lost such a beloved member of your farm family.

{{{HUGS}}}

Danni said...

Oh, sweet Eclipse. :-(
I know that death is a part of farm life, but it never gets easy. These critters become integral parts of our lives and family. The rely on us and make us laugh, and a large portion of the happiness I feel on a daily basis is due to my animals.
It sounds like Eclipse was equally blessed to have you as her mama. I'm so glad you were by her side to comfort her during her final moments.

Dreaming said...

I'm so sorry. It is always hard to lose a fuzzy friend - but knowing you eased her pain makes it a tad bit easier. Your memories of her make her sound like quite the character!

Edward said...

I am very sorry for your loss, It is always sad when an animal dies and Eclipse sounded like such a great friend, to you and your family, again you have my sympathies.
Regards
Edward

Faded Plains said...

I'm so sorry for your loss...she was blessed to be among people who loved her so.

AJ-OAKS said...

Oh Sis, I am so sorry to hear about Eclipse. Losing a member of our animal family is heart breaking. Thankfully we have memories of them that last our lifetime.
And the best part is, we really do get to see them on the other side.
Hugs.

carol at home said...

I'm so sorryfor your loss.

fromsophiesview said...

Eclipse was a beauty and gave you so much love. Peace and Love to you all!

Marie Anne said...

It is a sad day when we lose our beloved pets. I'm sorry you lost Eclipse, but it sounds like she had a wonderful life with you.

TinaTx said...

I'm so sorry. I'm sure she had a happy life there with your family.

Inger said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. It's always so hard to lose a pet. I think one of the most difficult things in life. Eclipse had a wonderful life and I know she will be remembered always.

Jim said...

What a beauty she was! All the best to you.

Lilla said...

So sorry for your loss. Eclipse sounds like a wonderful goat. I know you gave her a fabulous life on your farm!